3
Simple AED Steps
There are many different brands
of AEDs, but the same basic steps apply to all of them. If the
victim is unresponsive and not breathing normally, follow these
steps.
1. Turn
on the AED.
Turning on the AED activates the voice prompts. Bare the victim’s
chest.
2. Follow the voice and visual
prompts.
Remove the disposable electrode pads from the packaging. Make
sure to choose the correct pads. (adult or child). Do not
use child pads/system for an adult. Look at the graphic images
on each electrode as a guide for proper pad placement. Remove
the self-adhesive backing and attach the electrodes to the
victim's bare chest. Make sure the electrode attaches firmly
to the skin. Do not apply the pad over a female’s breast
as it may decrease effectiveness.
Most AEDs will automatically begin
to analyze a victim's heart rhythm when the electrodes are
fully attached and plugged into the device. Some will prompt
you to push a button to analyze. Ensure that nobody touches
the victim while the AED is analyzing the heart rhythm.
3. Shock/No Shock
If a shock is indicated check to make sure no one is touching
the victim, Loudly say “CLEAR'' or something similar.
Push the shock button and immediately resume chest compressions.
If no shock is indicated immediately resume chest compressions.
If no shock is indicated, immediately resume chest compressions.
Perform 5 cycles of 30 compressions and 2 breaths. Continue
as directed by the AED.
Operator
Error
Research shows that errors by AED operators do occur and include;
interference in AED operation by unnecessary movement (CPR)
Inappropriately turning the AED off, pads falling off or being
disconnected, shock able rhythm not shocked, inappropriate
shock delivered and Interference from movement other than
CPR. Very few cardiac rhythms are mismanaged by AEDS. AED
operators must listen carefully to and follow the AEDS prompts.
Troubleshooting an AED
If an AED detects a problem during use, a voice/visual prompt,
screen massage, or lit icon will be displayed. Stay calm and
do what the AED tells you to do. If a message indicating motion
occurs, make sure the cables are not being moved around. If
a message regarding the battery is displayed, the battery
is probably low. The AED will prompt you to change the battery.
Maintenance and Quality Assurance
AEDS perform regular self-tests to make sure they are ready
for use. If an AED fails a self-test, it will alert you with
an audible prompt. Contact authorized service personnel immediately.
AEDs should be inspected monthly. If the AED has a visual
status indicator, check it to make sure it shows the device
is operational. Examine the expiration dates on pad packages
and spare batteries. Inspect for obvious damage.
Make sure the battery and a replacement
battery (or batteries) is fully operational and ready to use.
AEDS should be stored with the necessary equipment to respond
to a cardiac arrest. The equipment should include, at minimum,
personal protective equipment (rescue breathing shield or
mask and disposable gloves), utility scissors (to cut clothing
and expose chest), a disposable razor (to shave a hairy chest),
disposable towels (to dry chest) and a plastic biohazard bag
(to dispose of used supplies).
AED Program
An AED program should be part of an overall system of quality
assurance, including medical oversight, training, data collection
and evaluation.
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